In its monthly Trade Talk series, Dekker Chrysanten shines a spotlight on its valued trading partners who distribute their diverse chrysanthemum varieties. In this edition, we delve into the vibrant world of Blume2000, a prominent player in the German flower market. Blume2000’s commitment to “bringing nature back to the city” extends beyond selling flowers and plants; they invest significantly in urban nature projects and the training of future florists. In an exclusive interview, Gerco Drenker, responsible for cut flower procurement at Blume2000, shares his extensive experience and insights, shedding light on their cherished partnership with Dekker Chrysanten.
A Blossoming Journey
With over 35 years of experience in the flower industry, Gerco Drenker is a true flower enthusiast. His journey began with his own flower shop, where he gained invaluable insights into customer preferences, store layout, and flower procurement. Subsequently, he expanded his horizons, working for a wholesaler and completing a marketing course at Royal FloraHolland. Notably, Gerco was responsible for flower procurement for renowned British retail chains. His remarkable journey culminated in a 12.5-year tenure at Dekker Chrysanten, where he spearheaded their efforts in the German market. Today, Gerco brings a wealth of experience to Blume2000 as their buyer, ensuring the continuous flow of vibrant chrysanthemums.
Cultivating Strong Relationships
Gerco places great emphasis on nurturing strong relationships with the various stakeholders he interacts with daily. He collaborates closely with a select group of growers, often establishing agreements on deliveries well in advance. This approach not only provides clarity for Gerco but also instills confidence in growers, assuring them of a stable market for their chrysanthemums. However, the flower industry remains dynamic, with each day presenting unique challenges and opportunities. Gerco acknowledges the unpredictability of the industry, with unforeseen events during transport and fluctuations in sales occasionally posing challenges. Yet, it is precisely this dynamic nature that has fueled Gerco’s passion for the flower industry for over three decades.
Blume2000: Bridging Nature and Urban Life
Blume2000, founded in 1974 with its first store in Hamburg’s 2000 postal code area, has evolved into a formidable presence in the floral world. The brand symbolizes a profound love for nature and an unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and improvement. Blume2000’s stores offer customers an immersive experience akin to a stroll through nature, with vibrant colors and delightful scents. Complementing their physical stores, Blume2000 has established itself as a leading online destination for purchasing flowers and plants.
The Chrysanthemum’s Radiance
Gerco’s tenure at Dekker has fostered a lasting affection for chrysanthemums. Their diverse colors, shapes, exceptional transportability, and impressive shelf life make them a favored choice for German consumers through Blume2000. Gerco notes that consumer buying behavior in Germany follows seasonal trends, with chrysanthemum sales surging, particularly in autumn. Varieties and colors are carefully adjusted to align with the seasons and prevailing trends. Blume2000 collaborates closely with trendwatchers and stylists to curate an assortment that resonates with consumers throughout the year.
A Fruitful Partnership
Gerco emphasizes the fruitful collaboration with Dekker Chrysanten as a breeder. Information exchange and staying abreast of the latest developments in the chrysanthemum world are pivotal aspects of his role. This ongoing dialogue is facilitated by Dekker Chrysanten’s regular visits to Blume2000. Events like Chrysanthemum Valley and participation in Trade Fairs are essential opportunities for Gerco to remain deeply immersed in the dynamics of the chrysanthemum industry. With Gerco’s extensive experience and Dekker Chrysanten’s unwavering commitment, this partnership between two floral enthusiasts is poised to flourish for years to come.